White Stork

White Stork

Geographical Range

Europe, western Asia, central and southern Africa

Habitat

Grasslands, marshes, and farmland around human habitation

Scientific Name

Ciconia ciconia

Conservation Status

Common

White storks have long been associated with the delivery of human babies, maybe because these birds themselves are such good parents. These storks mate for life and return to the same nest each year to raise three to five chicks. They build their bulky nests on trees but have adapted to human activity and utilize rooftops, chimneys and telephone poles for their nesting spots.Storks have disappeared from most of northern and western Europe. Their numbers continue to decline, most likely due to loss oftheirwetlandhabitatandpollution.

Did You Know?

In many parts of Europe and the Middle East the white stork is thought to bring good luck and wealth.